WWF today welcomed the Australian Government’s proposal to split the Renewable Energy Target (RET) into two parts – the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) and the Large-scale Renewable Energy Target.
It is hoped the division will encourage investment in large scale base-load technologies, like solar thermal, geothermal and wave energy.
"The two schemes are a good starting point, however we would like to see the RET amended so that it encourages simultaneous development of all emerging large-scale zero emission technologies," said Nicole Ikenberg, WWF’s Climate Change Policy Manager.
"It is vital the Government finds a way to level the playing field so that investment in renewable energy technologies can be spread evenly across the sector."
Research commissioned for WWF consistently shows that developing all low emissions electricity – generation technologies simultaneously is essential to transform the economy quickly enough to avoid runaway climate change.
Indications the scheme could allow the renewable energy target to be exceeded were also welcomed by WWF. Achieving a renewable energy target of greater than 20 per cent by 2020 would put Australia in a strong position to continue to increase renewable energy generation out to 2030.
"We would like to see this target increased to 40 per cent by 2030," said Ms Ikenberg.
"If we genuinely intend to transform our economy in a way that addresses the threat of climate change we have no choice but to increase our ambition. A 40 per cent target by 2030 is realistic, practical and affordable."
More information
Nicole Ikenberg, Climate Change Policy Manager, WWF, 0400 324 107
Alvin Stone, WWF Media Officer, (02) 8202 1529, [email protected]